Here’s your essential Freshers’ guide to first year at Durham

It’s nearing the start of the academic year and now the idea of coming to university is actually a reality.

The thought of moving away from home and living on your own can be terrifying, but don’t worry, you’re not alone.

I’m here to make sure you can be the best prepared fresher by the time you arrive, and make the most of every second you’re about to spend as a silly first year.

So, here is your guide to all things Durham.

What to know about group chats

From Unibuddy to Instagram, there are loads of Durham Freshers’ chats out there to meet potential friends, so don’t be afraid to pop a message to someone you think you’ll get along with. These are a great way to break the ice with potential flatmates and course mates.

However, don’t get too caught up in these chats. They are not the only way to make friends. They can be intimidating, and you may find that the people in them aren’t people you want to spend time with.

This is entirely fine; there are many other ways to meet friends, such as through colleges, sports, societies, and numerous other opportunities to get involved.

Freshers’ Week advice 

Freshers’ Week can be fun and exciting, but it can also be intimidating. Everyone feels nervous when they first arrive. It’s normal. The best thing to do is embrace the first week as much as possible.

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Freshers’ Week is arranged by your college, so all you need to do is purchase your ticket through the college. There is no need to buy any wristbands for club nights directly through the venue, as your college will have pre-arranged club nights and events planned for you.

There is a whole host of activities during Freshers’ Week, both drinking and non-drinking. Each college arranges around two club nights, a Freshers’ Formal, and a Freshers’ Fair.

The university holds a separate Freshers’ Fair in Maiden Castle, so be sure to attend if you wish to join any Durham Union sports or societies, or even just to grab some freebies!

There will be plenty of events to keep you busy throughout the week, both day and night, from petting zoos to sports taster sessions. These events are designed to help you make friends, so make the most of them and enjoy your week!

The most important thing is to be yourself and attend events you feel comfortable with. You’ll soon meet loads of friends, so try not to isolate yourself. Just remember to have fun!

All about Durham’s college life

Colleges are a Durham staple, and college life certainly has plenty to offer.

Each college is home to its own bar, with a signature drink. Every student has a different opinion as to which bar ranks best, so you might as well give them all a try if you can and make your own decision. All bars serve both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, so whether you’re on a night out, a social, or just fancy leaving the flat, all are welcome.

Most bars will host themed nights throughout term, from Halloween, St Patrick’s day, Karaoke nights and even weekly quizzes. There’s always something to go along and enjoy.

College also provides ample opportunity to get involved in a group and make new friends. All colleges offer their own selection of sports and societies to enjoy, which you can join with a JCR levy. There is a range of sports to choose from, with cheerleading, football, netball and many more on offer.

There’s also a vast array of societies, from the usual book clubs and theatre companies to the creative spag bol and curry appreciation societies.

The JCR itself can also be a fun way to meet new people and get involved in your college. There are loads of positions within a JCR available, so if you feel a role is right for you, why not sign up for your college’s next hustings?

Whatever you’re into, there will be something at college for you, and if not, you can always enquire about starting a new society!

Attending Durham events

Events at Durham can be quite the whirlwind. With formals, balls and society events, there is plenty to attend. Most colleges will host regular formals, which are sometimes themed for things like Valentine’s Day and Halloween. These tend to happen every few weeks, depending on the college, and are a great way to have fun with friends.

Colleges and some societies also host balls. Most colleges usually have both a summer and winter ball, which are held off-site. They typically include the option of a meal, as well as entertainment, music, and even fairground rides at the majority of summer balls.

College balls are definitely worth attending, so be sure to try to bag tickets to at least one during your time at Durham. The Waltzer after a few drinks? What could be more fun!

Finally, one of the most important events of the year is your college day. Each college holds an event spanning a whole day on-site.

There’s music, performances, face painting, bouncy castles, and a range of special drinks and cocktails, all to celebrate your college. College days are one of the best events Durham has to offer, so be sure to pop along to your own.

Student discounts and apps to have

Finally, another important aspect of being a Durham student is knowing where to find discounts.

Apps like Unidays are great to have for discounts in stores and on deliveries or takeaways, so be sure to download your student ID.

MiXR is another good app that allows you to collect points which build to freebies and discounts to use in bars such as The Library and The Three Bridges. You also receive a free drink when you first download the app.

FIXR is the app where you can buy tickets for most club nights after freshers. Be sure to download this one to avoid paying a higher price on the door.

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